The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a ‘red alert’ for Uttarakhand, warning of extremely heavy rainfall in several districts including Dehradun, Champawat, Haridwar, Nainital, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, and Udham Singh Nagar. This alert comes as the state grapples with ongoing relief and rescue operations in response to recent heavy rains and landslides.

In light of the situation, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken swift action, dispatching Commissioner of Garhwal Division Vinay Shankar Pandey to inspect disaster relief camps and affected areas in Tehri district.

On Monday, Pandey visited several locations, including Government Inter College Vinak Khal, Tingarh village, and Budhakedar, where he met with affected residents and assured them of the government’s commitment to sensitive and effective disaster relief efforts.

Chief Minister Dhami has emphasized that there should be no shortage of funds for disaster relief work. During his visit, Commissioner Pandey reviewed arrangements in relief camps, issuing directives for power backup, television access, children’s education, and livelihood support.

He also instructed the District Magistrate to make alternative arrangements for sheltering animals and to conduct a geological survey for the rehabilitation of Tingarh village.

In a significant development, Rs 8 crore has been approved for road safety measures in Budhakedar, with the Irrigation Department directed to initiate the tender process promptly.

The Bal Ganga and Budhakedar areas of the Bhilangana development block in Tehri Garhwal have been particularly affected by heavy rains and landslides.

Chief Minister Dhami is closely monitoring the situation, receiving updates from local officials and directing immediate action to identify and relocate residents from sensitive villages to safer locations.

(Inputs from ANI)